"We are who we were" is a pretty good adage when it comes to being parents. Learning about your family health and genetic background can be important in preparing for a pregnancy. We can harbor genes for diseases such as cystic fibrosis or sickle cell anemia without knowing it. Fortunately, many diseases have pre-pregnancy testing available so we can discover who might be carriers of these maladies. If there is a genetic disorder in the family, I suggest the couple speak with a geneticist before getting pregnant.

More information is available at KnowYourGenes.

Smoking and Other Drug Use

The label on a pack of cigarettes offers a succinct warning about the risks to the unborn child from exposure to smoke. We know smoking has been associated with a diminished capacity to get pregnant. In addition, smoking during pregnancy is associated with premature birth and smaller babies. Children of smokers tend to have more lung conditions (including asthma) than those of non-smokers.

I plead with my smokers to quit "cold turkey" before pregnancy. If they haven't stopped, I strongly encourage that they stop or smoke as little as possible. The use of nicotine gum, patches and medication is not recommended during pregnancy.

Illicit drugs should never be used during pregnancy. They can have major impacts upon an unborn child. Alcohol can also be very harmful during pregnancy. In advance of conceiving, mild (1-2 drinks per day) alcohol consumption is permissible. Those who abuse alcohol may have a harder time getting pregnant because of its effect on their general health.

Pregnancy can be the most exciting (and scary!) time of a woman's life. Millions of women have gone through successful pregnancies in the past and much of what we know is based on their experiences. A few simple preventative measures can help to ensure that your pregnancy goes as smoothly as possible and that your child is born as healthy and happy as can be.

Craig L. Bissinger, MD is a board certified Obstetrician/Gynecologist practicing in Parsippany, NJ. Dr. Bissinger is vice-chairman of the Department of OB/GYN at Morristown Memorial Hospital where is is also actively involved in teaching medical students and residents.

Dr. Bissinger received his undergraduate degree in biology at Indiana University, Bloomington, IN. He continued his education at Ohio State University College of Medicine where he received his medical degree. Dr. Bissinger did his residency at Rush Presbyterian-St. Luke's Medical Center, Chicago, IL in Obstetrics and Gynecology. He was the winner of the Ortho Pharmaceutical Senior Thesis award for his original research of cervical ripening agent for induction of labor. Dr. Bissinger was also selected to the be administrative Chief Resident during his tenure at Rush.

Copoyright © Craig Bissinger. Permission to republish granted to Pregnancy.org, LLC.